What is the term for the loosening of the nail without shedding?

The term for the loosening of the nail without shedding is onycholysis. This condition can occur due to various factors including trauma, infections, or underlying health conditions. When onycholysis takes place, the nail plate separates from the nail bed, but the nail itself does not completely fall off. It is important to differentiate this condition from others; for example, onychia refers to inflammation of the nail matrix, paronychia involves infection around the nail, and Beau's lines represent horizontal indentations in the nail plate due to temporary cessation of nail growth. Understanding these distinctions helps in identifying symptoms and determining appropriate treatments for nail conditions.